National's policies were focused around stability and a "steady as she goes" approach, but Holyoake's Government was increasingly perceived as tired and worn-out.

Additionally, Holyoake had been in politics since the 1930s, and his staunch conservatism was a poor fit for an increasingly cosmopolitan society.

Finally, in February 1972, Holyoake stood aside and was replaced by his deputy, Jack Marshall, who took steps to reinvigorate the party.

Kirk slimmed and dressed to improve his image, and visited several overseas Labour parties to broaden his knowledge.

He activated a "spokesman" or shadow cabinet system to spread the responsibility, but it was difficult to avoid one composed largely of MPs from the Auckland and Christchurch areas.

A deciding election issue was the proposed raising of the levels of lakes Manapouri and Te Anau as part of the construction of the Manapouri Power Station to supply the aluminium smelter in Bluff with electricity.

[5] Together with increased urbanisation in Christchurch and Nelson, the changes proved very disruptive to existing electorates.